J&K Police issues advisory for Amarnath Yatra pilgrims | Check details

The Jammu and Kashmir Police has issued a crucial advisory for pilgrims embarking on the annual Amarnath Yatra, urging them to strictly avoid independent travel and instead utilize escorted convoys. This directive comes just hours after a significant encounter broke out between security forces and terrorists in the Udhampur district, specifically in the Kuru area of Basantgarh, during "Operation Bihali." The advisory underscores the heightened security concerns ahead of the pilgrimage.

The 38-day-long Amarnath Yatra to the 3,880-meter-high holy cave shrine is scheduled to commence on July 3 and will conclude on August 9. Pilgrims can choose between two traditional routes: the longer, 48-km Pahalgam route in Anantnag, and the steeper, 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal. A large number of devotees are anticipated to undertake the pilgrimage, with the first batch of pilgrims slated to depart from the Jammu-based Bhagwati Nagar base camp a day before the official start of the Yatra.

In preparation for any emergencies, comprehensive arrangements have been made, including mock drills conducted in Udhampur on Wednesday. The 13th Battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is stationed in Udhampur to manage contingencies. Udhampur Deputy Commissioner Saloni Rai confirmed that 26 lodgement centers with a capacity to accommodate 6,500 pilgrims have been established. These centers are crucial for housing pilgrims during adverse weather conditions or other emergencies, with all necessary facilities being inspected.

The advisory emphasizes the need for pilgrims' cooperation with security protocols to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage experience. The call to travel in escorted convoys is a direct measure to enhance pilgrim safety in light of the prevailing security situation in the region.